Stellenbosch University Development and Alumni Relations Division Data Steward (Job Level 12) Ref. DAR/256/0924 Kindly note that only South African citizens from the designated groups will be considered for the position. The Development and Alumni Relations Division at Stellenbosch University (SU) is dedicated to strategic fundraising, enhancing philanthropic support, and fostering strong relationships with alumni and donors. Our responsibilities include donor stewardship, alumni relations programme management, event coordination, and providing professional support services for fundraising and alumni relations. The Data Stewart will play a crucial role in leveraging our data assets, including alumni, donor, and prospective donor data, to their full potential. The incumbents primary responsibilities will involve ensuring that data policies and standards are effectively implemented within the Division. Working behind the scenes, the incumbent will manage systems to maintain accurate and up-to-date information, ultimately improving operational efficiencies. The incumbent will also serve as the face of the University's data management efforts, fostering a data-focused culture and advocating for the proper use of data. With strong data stewardship, the incumbent will help colleagues make better use of data, leading to fewer errors, targeted donor and alumni communications, and prioritisation of high-potential prospects. Duties: Key Deliverables: Data Management and User Support Gathering information from alumni feedback, fundraiser emails, and RTS mail to ensure data quality. Internally reporting metrics, identifying and evaluating issues, and coordinating necessary corrections. Data Integrity Ensuring data compliance and security, and safeguarding data while providing insights into potential risks and regulatory guidance. General Overseeing data accuracy, security, and governance, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Establishing standards, resolving issues, and providing guidance for effective data management and decision-making. Key Activities: Data Updates and Enrichment Identifying supplementary data, such as demographic, professional, and geographical information, to enhance the database. Recognising institutional opportunities to update data, and planning activities and resources accordingly. Data Maintenance Maintaining records of memberships and other relevant information to measure stakeholder engagement, including annual lists of new SRC members, new HR lists, and residence governance bodies. Data Privacy, Security, and Risk Management Compliance Ensuring adherence to internal standards and guidelines for data privacy, security, and risk management. General Supporting data and operations for initiatives such as telethons and annual fund campaigns. Managing data updates during events like graduation and convocation to facilitate event management processes. Requirements: A relevant post-matric qualification (NQF 6 or equivalent) with three years database administration experience, or RPL with at least five years database administration experience. Customer service experience is essential, as this role involves engaging with alumni and donors regarding data. Strong verbal and written communication skills with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy. Highly collaborative and innovative. Extensive knowledge of data management operations, including processes, regulations, and a functional understanding of data flows and sources. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, specifically Excel and Word. Excellent professional written and verbal communication skills in at least English. Recommendations: Previous experience coordinating CRM systems will be advantageous. Previous experience with data management within a higher education environment. Proficiency in either Afrikaans, isiXhosa, or another official South African language will be an added advantage. If you are passionate about data management and eager to contribute to the University's mission, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join us in making a significant impact through effective data stewardship.
